LinkedIn recently conducted an analysis of the top 100 most common certifications among its users. Although the study included non-technical certifications, the top nine were all IT related. This is consistent with the growing demand for IT related jobs. Although the skills gap between employers and qualified talent continues to grow, certification training is filling that gap. Here are five of the most popular IT certifications among LinkedIn users.

Microsoft

Microsoft certifications are very popular with IT system administrators and are the most common certification for LinkedIn users. Certification tracks include: Server, Desktop, Applications, Database and Developer. The certification path begins with the Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA). There are no prerequisites required for this level of certification and it can be achieved by successfully writing one Microsoft exam. The Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) can be achieved by successfully writing a series of two-three Microsoft exams that map to a specific skill. The Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) requires the successful completion of additional exams beyond the MCSA. This is Microsoft’s highest level certification and demonstrates that recipients have the skills to innovate and build solutions across multiple technologies.

Cisco

Cisco certifications were ranked number four on LinkedIn’s list of most popular certifications and are most common with network engineers. Cisco certifications tracks include: Cloud, Collaboration, Cybersecurity Operations, Data Center, Design, Industrial, Routing and Switching, Security, Service Provider and Wireless. All Cisco certifications begin with the Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT). Successfully writing this exam provides the basics for all future Cisco training and certification. The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is the next step up and usually requires an additional course towards a specific Cisco track. The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) expands the knowledge from the associate level to the professional level and involves a deeper comprehension of a specific Cisco track. The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) is Cisco’s highest certification. Those who graduate from the CCNP can pursue this high standard of excellence and are world renowned experts within their specified Cisco tracks once they complete the CCIE practical exam.

CompTIA

CompTIA is a vender neutral set of certifications that rank number five on LinkedIn’s list of most popular certifications. These technologies are popular with IT generalists who require a proficiency in different facets of information technology. Certification tracks are often easy to obtain and usually only require one or two exams to be written. Certification tracks include: A+, Network +, Security +, Mobility +, Cloud + and CASP. There are no pre-requisites to sit for these exams and they can be very helpful to those who are new to information technology.

Project Management Institute

The Project Management Institute is the industry leader for those who direct projects and it ranked number six on LinkedIn’s list of common certifications. IT related certifications include the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), Project Management Professional (PMP) and PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP). The CAPM is an entry level certification that will enhance one’s effectiveness while working with project teams. The PMP is the most recognized project management certification in the industry and demonstrates an elevated level of expertise. The PMI-ACP is for those who require an agile environment that allows a practitioner to make multiple, quick changes to a project. Project Management has unique requirements before obtaining certification. The prerequisites for each of these certifications are clearly listed on the PMI website and are also included here:

CAPM

High school diploma or GED

1,500 hours of working on projects

OR

Complete 23 hours of PMI coursework before writing the exam

PMP

High school diploma or GED

7,500 hours of supervising projects

35 hours of project management education

OR

Four-year college diploma

4,500 hours of supervising projects

35 hours of PMI coursework

PMI-ACP

2,000 hours of project management experience

1,500 hours of agile project experience

21 hours of PMI coursework in agile practices.

Oracle

Oracle comes in at number nine on LinkedIn’s most common certifications and is the premier leader in database technology and software. Oracle also contains many different certifications for database managers and software developers. These include: Oracle Applications, Oracle Database, Oracle Enterprise Management, Oracle’s Foundation, Oracle Industries, Oracle Java and Middleware, Oracle Operating Systems, Oracle Cloud, Oracle Systems and Oracle Virtualization.

Summing it Up

LinkedIn’s 100 most common certifications analysis demonstrates the popularity and need for alternate accreditation. A college education used to be sufficient for finding gainful employment in technology, but that has changed. Anyone interested in learning more about IT certification is encouraged to call (877) 797-2799 or visit knowledgenet.com.